As you come up on your left, you should see the grand entrance of Laurel Bank Park, marked by a lovely iron gate supported by sturdy stone pillars. The sign overhead proudly announces "Laurel Bank Park," welcoming you to this historic green space.
Now, let's dive into some fun facts about Laurel Bank Park! This gem of a park, located at the corner of West Street, Hill Street, and Herries Street, is a heritage-listed slice of heaven right here in Toowoomba. It spans a generous 4.3 hectares (approximately 11 acres) and has been a public delight since it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 30 November 2018.
The park’s history is packed with charm. It started blooming back in 1904, thanks to the green thumbs of local resident Samuel George Stephens Jr., who generously donated it to the city in 1932. Can you imagine tending a garden for nearly 30 years before sharing it with everyone? Stephens certainly had a heart for horticulture!
Within the park, you'll encounter an array of mature trees, perfect for a cool, shady stroll, and two croquet lawns added in the 1930s when the park was in its prime development. And here's a cool tidbit: during World War II, the park served as a rest and recreation camp for US Navy submariners. The former mess hall from this era still stands, making it the only remaining building from that period within the park.
Laurel Bank Park has been attracting tourists since the 1930s and remains a picturesque tourist magnet today. With Toowoomba’s cooler climate, courtesy of its 700 meters elevation above sea level, you’ll find a rich variety of plants and trees that might struggle in warmer regions like Brisbane.
This garden city vibe takes root way back to the days of William Groom, Toowoomba's first mayor, who successfully lobbied for a recreational reserve in 1869, giving rise to what we now cherish as the city's green spaces.
So, go ahead, breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the stunning gardens, and maybe even try your hand at croquet if you're feeling adventurous!
